After a record year in 2022, Benx Facades remains optimistic for continued growth in 2023 with more work in the offsite sector firmly in its sights.
Although a housebuilding slowdown is likely this year, the company remains confident that it will gain market share in each of its segments, with the greatest opportunities being offsite. According to Group Chairman, Ian Wilson: "Having supplied customers using offsite processes for several years now, it feels like the transition is approaching a tipping point – we know modern methods of construction (MMC) is still in the early stages, but the momentum seems to be growing." And Wilson believes the group's innovative façade systems are ideally suited to support offsite construction, adding: "We want to become the supplier of choice for offsite façade systems."
Benx's proprietary Supertech® rainscreen facade is gaining significant traction. A lightweight, yet durable, cladding solution that combines strength and stability with the appearance of traditional timber, Supertech® has been well-received by housebuilders. To meet increasing demand, Benx has invested in a state-of-the art automated spray paint line to coat the weatherboards in-house – dramatically scaling capacity, while ensuring consistent product quality. Benx also worked with a leading international coatings manufacturer to create an A-1 (non-combustible) fire-rated coating - the first of its kind. These initiatives have helped to dramatically increase the sales of Supertech® and provide a platform for continuing growth.
The most recent addition to the Benx portfolio is its innovative SLIPFAST® brick slip system. Following customer feedback that existing mechanical-fix systems were, 'too heavy, too slow to install, or too expensive', Benx set about creating something which 'ticks all the boxes.' SLIPFAST® utilises a unique 'rail and clip' mechanical fixing system, allowing its clay slips to be attached very quickly, without the need for skilled operatives. Stainless steel fixings as standard, makes it suitable for coastal environments and it also carries an A-1 fire-rating. Since its launch in mid-2022, SLIPFAST® has been getting a lot of attention, with several large projects underway and a growing project pipeline.
Benx has also been ramping up its fabrication activity. In addition to cutting Y-Wall and multipurpose sheathing boards for both offsite and site-based applications, the business has been busy supplying 'made-to-measure' Swisspearl facades and support framing for Volumetric Modular's iconic MODULHAUS™ housing units. Among other fabrication activities, it is also supplying facades for new schools, delivered through the Department for Education (DfE) Offsite Framework.
Notwithstanding the company's success, Benx recognises that offsite construction is a fast-developing realm which will require it to continuously improve its processes, invest, and always listen to customer feedback. According to CEO, Kevin Ruane: "Benx is a learning organisation – we strive to get better all the time."
As Group Chairman, Ian Wilson states: "We never forget that like everyone, we are finding our way and, as the processes evolve, the goalposts will continue to move – so we must continue to adapt, while using our experience to help shape the future of facades."
For more information visit: www.benx.co.uk
Source: Offsite Magazine
